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Jack Johnson was the first African American Heavyweight Champion of the World. His dominance over his white opponents spurred furious debates and race riots in the early 20th century.

Watch • 4:01
Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson
The Jim Crow Era
Johnson became the world heavyweight boxing champion in the height of the Jim Crow era.
Clip: S1 | 4:01
Watch • 3:11
Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson
Speeding Tickets
Johnson was given speeding tickets scores of times over the years.
Clip: S1 | 3:11
Watch • 1:42:12
Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson
Part 2
See Jack Johnson's rise to the top of the boxing world and witness the country's reaction
Episode: S1 E2 | 1:42:12
Episodes
Watch • 1:51:00
Unforgivable Blackness: The Rise and Fall of Jack Johnson
Part 1
Follow Jack Johnson's remarkable journey from his humble beginnings to entering the ring.
Episode: S1 E1 | 1:51:00